Seal and Faucet Maintenance: Tenant Guide France
Tenants in France should understand their responsibilities for maintaining seals and faucets to avoid moisture problems and leaks. This guide explains in simple terms which repairs are the tenant's responsibility, which fall to the landlord, and how to document defects. You will also find practical steps to report a defect, draft a repair request letter and, if necessary, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission or the court. The information is based on French regulation and common administrative procedures to protect your rights and keep your home in good condition.
Routine maintenance and tenant repairs
As a rule, minor routine repairs such as replacing a seal or descaling are the tenant's responsibility, while structural repairs are the landlord's duty.[1]
- Regular maintenance of seals and faucets to prevent leaks and wear.
- Regular maintenance: cleaning and descaling aerators and aerator screens.
- Contact the landlord quickly in case of a major leak or failure.
- Avoid permanent modifications to installations without written landlord agreement.
Keep photos and dates of interventions to prove the condition of the dwelling.
When the landlord is responsible
The landlord must carry out the repairs necessary to keep the dwelling fit for habitation and meet decency obligations.
- Repairs to piping, water circulation and significant waterproofing defects.
- Replacement of worn elements that compromise normal use of the dwelling.
- Obligation to act within a reasonable time after notification.
In France, the law clearly distinguishes tenant repairs from landlord repairs.
How to report a problem
Practical steps to report a defect related to seals or faucets.
- Documents: gather photos, videos and invoices of previous interventions.
- Form or letter: write a written request specifying the nature of the defect and the sending date.
- Deadlines: allow the landlord a reasonable time to reply, then follow up in writing if necessary.
- If there is no response, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission or the court.
Respond to official letters and keep proof of sending.
FAQ
- Who pays to replace a seal?
- Generally the tenant for small seals; the landlord for major repairs, according to the law.[1]
- Can I call in a tradesperson myself?
- You can call a professional in an emergency, but keep invoices and inform the landlord; reimbursement depends on the nature of the damage and agreements.
- What if the landlord refuses to act?
- Send a formal notice, refer the matter to the departmental conciliation commission, then the court if necessary.[2]
How-To
Steps to draft and send a clear repair request.
- Documents: gather dated evidence and notes about the observed defect.
- Draft: include the address, description of the problem, date of appearance and request for intervention.
- Send: prefer registered mail or email copy and keep receipts.
- Recourse: refer to the departmental conciliation commission before judicial action if necessary.
Key takeaways
- Always keep photos and invoices to prove condition and interventions.
- Notify the landlord promptly and in writing to start the process.
- Use the departmental conciliation commission before judicial action.
